One of the unexpected side-effects of the current healthcare situation is that pet owners are home more than usual, and going for longer walks with their pets. While dogs are likely over-the-moon about this extra time outdoors, there are some other creatures that are taking advantage of this as well.
The mild weather we’ve been having is one of the prime temperatures for adult ticks. That, combined with the extra wildlife taking back the streets (skunks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, and even deer), is producing one of the most active weeks that we’ve seen for ticks in recent memory.
Don’t Let Ticks Catch You by Surprise
Lyme disease in particular has been an increasing concern around the GTA, so we recommend tick and flea prevention medications for at least 9 months of the year (and potentially year-round) to protect against the diseases they carry.
There are now several product choices available. If you have not yet picked up tick prevention for your pet this year, call or email us to arrange to have some reserved for your pet as soon as possible, to ensure that they are protected.
Extra Information for Cat Owners: Cats are generally less likely to contract tick-borne diseases, however families with outdoor cats and families with both dogs and cats have an increased risk. Also, make sure to NEVER use a dog tick prevention product on a cat – they can be toxic. Ask us about tick preventives made specifically for cats.
Jemma in for a tick removal! Luckily her owners caught it quickly!
Insider Preview!
Starting this heartworm season (June 1st) there is a new all-in-one product on its way! Simparica Trio will be available later this spring, and offer protection against fleas, ticks, heartworm, roundworm and hookworm. Stay tuned, more details to follow!  Give us a call to reserve your medication!